NEWS FROM THE TOUR VANS
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Jason Day’s golf career has undergone a renaissance in the last 18 months since the Australian major champion and former world No. 1 in 2015 had fallen to as low as 175th in the world in October 2022.
Last season, however, Day started playing more like his old self, winning for the first time in five years at the AT&T Byron Nelson in May and finishing runner-up in the Open Championship at Royal Liverpool in July. He stands No. 20 in the Official World Golf Ranking, with three top-10 finishes already this season in seven PGA Tour starts.
While his game soars, the 36-year-old Day is diversifying his professional portfolio beyond the golf course. In March, Day took equity ownership in Payntr Golf, a golf footwear and accessories company based in Portland, Oregon.
Day and Payntr are launching a collaboration for an innovative performance shoe collection – dubbed the X1 Proto – which is scheduled to hit retail this fall. Day will be testing the model throughout the 2024 season and is wearing the X 006 RS in PGA Tour events.
“Over the last several years, Payntr Golf and their footwear has made a name for themselves amongst many professional golfers on tour,” Day said. “When the opportunity to join this team, and their mission to give golfers a true on-course performance advantage, was proposed, it fit perfectly. …
“For me, having the unique opportunity to work closely as an owner on a collaborative collection from concept to reveal was key to the full partnership coming together.”
Day’s affiliation with Payntr Golf will go beyond a mere endorsement deal, as he is actively involved in the design and development process from inception to execution. The six-month design process of the X1 Proto model aims to combine Day's signature style elements with Payntr's proprietary propulsion technology and advanced comfort features.
Day’s feedback over the course of testing during the season will refine the design and functionality of the footwear to ensure it meets his and Payntr’s standards of performance, traction, waterproofing and comfort.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in this new partnership,” Day said. “From concept to the prototyping process has been eye opening. Being able to contribute my insights and preferences to shape Payntr Golf’s next generation of footwear is truly exciting.”
Mike Forsey, co-founder and president of Payntr Golf, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Jason on this exciting venture. His unparalleled expertise and passion for the game will continue to be invaluable in creating a truly innovative golf footwear collection with a new tech classic style to elevate the on-course experience of golfers around the world.”
Scott Michaux